We hear it a lot this time of year: Allergies and eyes. Here are a few more tips to help you tackle eye allergies:
6. Knowledge Is Power: Have allergies turned your eyes red and puffy? You’re not alone — millions of Americans deal with the condition, also called allergic conjunctivitis. A cold compress can give you a quick fix before heading out in public. But for long-term relief, you need to know your triggers and treat the symptoms.
7. What Are the Symptoms: They include redness in the white of your eye or inner eyelid. Other warning signs: are itching, tearing, blurred vision, a burning sensation, swollen eyelids, and sensitivity to light. Eye allergies can happen alone or with nasal allergies and an allergic skin condition called eczema. The only way to know for sure if it’s an allergy is to see your doctor.
8. Try Some Eye Drops: Most over-the-counter drops for eye allergies have the same medications used to treat nasal allergies:
- Antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers block the release of itch-causing chemicals your body makes.
- Decongestant drops shrink blood vessels in your eyes, which eases redness.
- Tear substitutes rinse away allergens and keep eyes moist.
Note: People with certain conditions should not use some types of eye drops, so ask Dr. Barr. Prescription options may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or steroids.
9. Oral Medicines Can Help, Too: Antihistamines and decongestants that you take as pills, capsules, or liquids can help control your symptoms. But they can dry out your eyes and might make you sleepy. Some OTC decongestants make you dizzy or wired. If you have high blood pressure, ask Dr. Barr what to take.
Unfortunately, there are other triggers and remedies. If your symptoms are severe, give us a call as additional treatment may be needed. Click here to contact us today!
Source: WebMD / Island Eye Care